(TEREKEKA COUNTY) – The National Ministry of Roads and Bridges has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the China Road and Bridge Corporation to carry out a feasibility study for the construction of Tali International Airport in Terekeka County, Central Equatoria.
Minister of Roads, Simon Majok Mijak, confirmed the MoU shortly after returning from Nairobi, Kenya, where the agreement was signed. He said representatives from the Chinese company will soon arrive in Juba to begin detailed assessments and planning.
The Tali airport project was first approved by the Cabinet in 2011. It is designed to serve as a major international gateway for South Sudan, providing improved transport links within Central Equatoria and the wider region.
Currently, South Sudan has four international airports in Juba, Rumbek, Malakal, and Wau. The Tali project would make Central Equatoria home to a fifth international airport and at least two additional airports within the state. This expansion is expected to strengthen regional connectivity and support economic growth.
The feasibility study will evaluate technical, financial, and environmental aspects of the project. Key areas of focus will include the runway design, terminal facilities, supporting infrastructure, and potential commercial opportunities. Officials anticipate that the project could attract both domestic and international investment, create jobs, and improve trade and travel across the region.
Central Equatoria’s development as a transport hub is part of a broader strategy by the South Sudanese government to modernise infrastructure and enhance logistics networks. Government sources highlight that improved airport capacity will support tourism, business travel, and the movement of goods, particularly for agricultural and industrial exports.
Experts note that expanding South Sudan’s airport network is critical for economic diversification. Oil remains the country’s main revenue source, but investment in transport infrastructure such as Tali International Airport could provide new revenue streams and support private sector growth.
The Ministry of Roads and Bridges said that consultations with stakeholders, local communities, and investors will follow once the feasibility study is complete. It also added that the government aims to ensure the airport is financially sustainable, environmentally sound, and technically capable of meeting future demand.
South Sudan International Airports Overview
| Airport | Location | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Juba International Airport | Central Equatoria | Operational | Main gateway, commercial & passenger flights |
| Rumbek Airport | Lakes State | Operational | Regional connectivity |
| Malakal Airport | Upper Nile | Operational | Supports trade and relief operations |
| Wau Airport | Western Bahr el Ghazal | Operational | Regional hub |
| Tali International Airport (Planned) | Central Equatoria | Feasibility Study | Will expand Central Equatoria connectivity |
